Full Wave Rectification

A full-wave rectifier converts the whole of the input waveform to one of constant polarity (positive or negative) at its output. Full-wave rectification converts both polarities of the input waveform to DC (direct current), and is more efficient.

Full wave rectification:





The positive half cycle:

During the positive half cycle of the supply, diodes D1 and D2 conduct in series while diodes D3 and D4 are reverse biased and the current flows through the load as shown below








The negative half cycle:

During the negative half cycle of the supply, diodes D3 and D4 conduct in series, but diodes D1 and D2 switch of as they are now reverse biased. The current flowing through the load is the same direction as before.



Full wave rectification for smoothing DC:

With the full wave rectification we get the pulsating DC with the ripples.For smooth DC we use capacitors to remove ripples.